What are important dates for the 2025 scholarship cycle?
- Application Opens: September 13, 2025 (Ana’s birthday)
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
- Winner Announced: Late April 2026 (exact date to be announced)
All dates will be posted on the scholarship website and on our Facebook page.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
The scholarship is open to graduating seniors who reside in the city of Hagerman, regardless of whether they attend a public school, private school, or public charter school. If you live in Hagerman and are pursuing higher education or training, you’re eligible.
What qualities are you looking for in applicants?
We’re looking for students who reflect Ana’s values: character, resilience, and a heart for service. Your GPA matters, but your character, story, and desire to help others matter just as much—if not more. Even if you feel like you may not qualify for this scholarship due to your grades, we strongly encourage you to apply.
When does the application open and what is the deadline?
The application opens every year on September 13th (Ana’s birthday). The deadline is March 31st, 2026. Winners are announced about one month after the deadline. All submissions must be made through the Apply page of this website. Upon submission, you will be emailed a confirmation that your application was received.
What do I need to submit?
- A 3-page personal essay OR a 1-page personal essay and a 3-minute video addressing the personal essay prompt
- One letter of recommendation
- A copy of your transcript or proof of academic standing
What's the personal essay prompt?
We ask applicants to write about:
“Describe a time you served others and how it impacted you. How do you hope to continue making a difference in the future?”
Be honest and specific. We’re not looking for perfect stories—we’re looking for your story.
How much is the scholarship award?
Each year, the Ana Tellez Memorial Scholarship awards one $2,500 scholarship, funded by Ana’s brother Daniel Tellez and his wife Amanda Hernandez.
As the scholarship fund grows through future donations, we hope to increase the number of recipients or award amounts to continue expanding Ana’s impact in the Hagerman community.
How is the winner chosen?
Our scholarship board—made up of educators, community members, and family—reviews each application with care. We look at your story, service, effort, and heart. The final decision is based on how well applicants reflect Ana’s legacy.
Who was Ana Tellez?
Ana was a proud Hagerman resident who passed away in 2023 after a courageous battle with leukemia. She was known for her kindness, strength, and unwavering commitment to helping others—organizing service projects even from her hospital room. This scholarship honors her life and continues the impact she made in her community.
